Super Rugby Power Rankings – Week 12

The Hurricanes and Crusaders showed exactly why they are favourites for 2018, the Chiefs and Highlanders cracked under pressure, while the Jaguares and Sharks kept pace. These are your Super Rugby Power Rankings – Week 12

1. Hurricanes

The Canes hold firm after another tough win took their streak to 8 on the trot. They will be desperate to continue their run knowing the Crusaders are breathing down their necks. A big shout out to Ben Lam – he has now scored 12 tries and is comfortably running down that Super Rugby season record of 15.

Source: Super Rugby TV – YouTube

2. Crusaders

A dominant display in Melbourne suggests the Crusaders are peaking at the right time of the season. They dominated most of the match and were able to show that trademark ruthlessness without really breaking stride. That showdown with the Hurricanes in two weeks time looks like it’s going to decide the conference.

Source: Super Rugby TV – YouTube

3. Highlanders

A blip against the Sharks in Durban isn’t enough to drop the Highlanders down the ladder. They looked fatigued and low on energy in this match. Like the Chiefs, they were outplayed across the park and that result will all but take them out of conference contention.

Source: Super Rugby TV – YouTube

4. Chiefs

Losing to the Jaguares isn’t great for the history books. Credit to the Jaguares though, they out-muscled, out-witted and ultimately schooled the Chiefs in most areas of the game. Expect the Chiefs to show more Mana this week as they fly to Cape Town.

5. Lions

The Lions showed they are more than capable in this competition. They outplayed the Hurricanes in the last 30 minutes on Saturday. Fortunately for the Hurricanes, the Lions have made a habit of starting matches slowly and that has cost them in their last two outings.

6. Jaguares

The big movers and shakers this week are the Jaguares. Four wins on the bounce have them well back in contention for a finals spot. Winning at home is now vital to their playoff aspirations.

Source: Super Rugby TV – YouTube

7. Sharks

The Sharks showed that if they can get things right, they can beat anyone. The Highlanders were no match for the Sharks as they ran riot in front of a lively crowd at Kings Park. The young talent on show by the Durban based outfit really reflects the improving state of South African rugby – long may it continue.

8. Waratahs

This was probably Australia’s best chance of breaking their win drought against New Zealand teams. It wasn’t to be as the Waratahs suffered yet another predictable result, which sees them slip down the Power Rankings.

Source: Super Rugby TV – YouTube

9. Bulls

This Jekyll and Hyde team have promised so much this season, but haven’t quite delivered. That inconsistency once again crept into their game over the weekend as they went down to arch rivals the Stormers.

10. Rebels

After beating the Australian drum at the beginning of the season, the Melbourne based team continued their rude awakening to the rigours of Super Rugby, going down to the defending champions. Not much else to say really.

11. Stormers

A resounding win at home keeps their slim finals hopes alive. They have been spectacular on their own turf this year but ensuring they get positive results on the road, will ultimately decide their 2018 fate.

Source: Super Rugby TV – YouTube

12. Reds

A bye means the Reds keep their spot at 12.

13. Blues

Finally, the Blues notched their third win of the campaign. A boost of confidence should give them enough motivation to finish the season strongly. The welcoming return of Sonny Bill Williams will boost the side as they prepare for a huge clash against fellow conference rivals, the Hurricanes on Friday night.

14. Brumbies

A bye moves the Brumbies closer to rock bottom.

15. Sunwolves

A week off meant that there was absolutely no chance of earning their first win of the season.

Author: Simon van Ryn

I am a sports mad fanatic who loves watching drama filled code. Growing up in Wellington I have been fortunate enough to witness some great sporting moments at the Cake Tin – non more satisfying than seeing my beloved Hurricanes finally lift that trophy after 21 years of hurt.